PREDATOR CONTROL

Predator control is the key to achieving the vision that kiwi thrive and prosper in the Whakatane district

Kiwi chicks are vulnerable to stoats because as young birds they are very small, and distinctly smelly . It is believed that 95 percent of all wild chicks are killed by stoats before they reach “stoat safe weight” of 1000-1100 grams. This is why eggs are removed from the forest, hatched and then returned as “stoat safe” chicks.

Active stoat control is carried out in preparation for the hatching of chicks insitu. Predator control targeting stoats is well established within Ohope Scenic Reserve and Ngati Awa Farm of over approx 3000ha. Results have been very good with a steady fall in stoat capture figures within the Core as new areas have come on line.

This suggests that most resident animals are being captured quickly while ongoing captures may be animals travelling through or ranging into the reserve. Predator control is currently being extended into two adjoining reserves, Kohi Point and Mokorua Scenic Reserves. This will target stoats, ferrets and weasels and will bring a further 1100ha of traps into action. Most of these will be managed by volunteers.

Possum and rat control bait station lay out is completed within Kohi Point Scenic reserve with 186ha treated. Treating forests for rats as well as possums has many benefits for forest dwellers. High rat numbers affect regeneration of plants through reducing seed available for germination. Rats also prey upon invertebrates, and are known to raid the nests of forest birds.

Predator Control